A rise in both daytime and nighttime temperatures has led to a surge in the mosquito population across several parts of Pune, prompting residents, especially those living near water bodies, to demand regular fumigation and spraying by the civic administration.
Residents Voice Concerns
Residents said that while the administration had begun clearing weeds from rivers, the work was yet to be completed, which they believed was a major reason for the increasing mosquito population. In the Khadki area, residents reported a sharp rise in mosquito presence, adding to their daily discomfort. They pointed out that water hyacinth in the Mula river was yet to be completely removed.
"With temperatures continuing to rise, the situation has become extremely challenging. The administration should carry out continuous spraying and fumigation drives, and these efforts must continue during the upcoming monsoon," a resident said.
Ajay Shinde of Shaniwar Peth highlighted that unattended garbage and lapses in waste management posed serious health risks. "Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) should ensure regular removal of waste dumped at various locations. The situation will worsen during pre-monsoon showers and after the onset of the monsoon if these vulnerable spots remain filled with garbage," Shinde said.
Civic Administration Response
Civic officials, on their part, said local ward offices had been instructed to conduct regular checks at vulnerable spots. "The removal of water hyacinth has been expedited and most of the weed from Pashan lake has already been cleared," an official said. The administration has also appealed to residents to prevent water accumulation in and around their premises and avoid open garbage dumping.
Residents are urged to cooperate with the civic body to mitigate the mosquito menace. Regular fumigation drives are expected to continue, especially as the monsoon approaches, to curb the spread of mosquito-borne diseases.
